Strålefare hos tannlegen, frem til idag

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Abstract

Based on the literature we have surveyed, and correspondence with key individuals in the
scientific community, it is possible to draw some conclusions. Use of dental X-rays have
minimal harmful effect when the current guidelines and recommendations are followed. One
should, however take the necessary precautions when utilizing this kind of equipment, and
one should be aware that the device has potentially harmful effects. Different sources use
different figures on how harmful dental X-rays may be. The numbers we have used indicate
that in a worst case scenario, two persons will die in Norway every year from lethal cancer
caused by dental X-rays . These are numbers that definitely should be taken seriously.
Today we do know more than earlier about possible side effects from the use of dental X-ray.
But the development has not been as drastic as in other parts of society, for example IT. The
X-ray machine functions by the same principles as it did from the 1920's but we are more
aware and possess more knowledge of how to limit the radiation doses and the precautions
that should be taken. We have over the years experienced various forms of irradiation of
people, as presented in this article, and thus acquired some understanding of potential harmful
effects and how to minimize these. Both articles we have analysed are both interesting
because they are relatively new, and both present remarkable results. Dental X-rays and the
Risk of Intracranial Meningioma seems to give a correct picture of reality, but the data used
by the authors is far from up to date, and it is therefore unlikely that the same conclusion can
be drawn in the future. Today we have other routines in order to minimize the radiation doses.
The validity of the conclusions from Antepartum Dental Radiography and Infant Low Birth
Weight can be discussed. This is evident when one takes a look at the many "Letters to the
editor". If the writers' conclusion in fact is correct and dental X-rays during pregnancy
increases the chance of having children with low birth weight, that is something to be taken
seriously. However many individuals in the scientific community with us, consider this
conclusion unlikely.